Meralco has to win by at least six points for the Bolts to advance to the East Asia Super League Finals.
The Meralco Bolts face a tough and crucial test when they take on the Ryukyu Golden Kings in the East Asia Super League Wednesday, Feb. 11.
Match kicks off at 7:30 p.m. at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Cubao.
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The Bolts enter the matchup on a three-game winning streak to improve to a 3-2 record, but they remain in a do-or-die situation.
Meralco needs to beat the B.LEAGUE powerhouse by at least six points to secure a spot in the postseason — a feat that would make them the first PBA team in six years to reach the EASL knockout stage.
A win by more than 20 points would even give the Bolts the top seeding in Group B and a semifinal bye.
With Rondae Hollis-Jefferson out for the season after suffering an Achilles injury, much of the responsibility falls on Justin Brownlee.
On loan from Ginebra, the beloved naturalized Filipino has taken charge offensively, providing scoring and leadership while teaming up with Ismael Romero and rising guard Sina Vahedi.
Meralco also adds size with NLEX reinforcement Cady Lalanne stepping in to replace Hollis-Jefferson on the EASL roster.
Jason Brickman also makes his debut for Meralco since being picked seventh overall by the team in the PBA Season 50 draft.
Standing in the Bolts' way is a Ryukyu squad known for its balanced attack and disciplined play.
They hold a 4-1 card.
(With reports from Jan Ballesteros)
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[Editor’s note: This article was written by a member of One Sports Digital with the help of AI and reviewed by editorial staff for accuracy.]